This week marks the commencement of the 2020 Darwin Street Art Festival, which will revitalise the Darwin CBD and make sure we are ready for the rebound post COVID-19.

The new approach to the Darwin Street Art Festival during the current COVID-19 restrictions will see local artists stepping into the spotlight and creating 15 murals across Darwin city throughout the next few months.

This Territory Labor Government initiative will create work for our local artists delivering murals each fortnight, with local families able to explore the trail and the Darwin CBD soon with stage two restrictions easing from noon Friday 15 May.

Self-taught local artist Jason Lee, has this week began painting a blank wall at 79 Mitchell Street.

Born and raised in Darwin, Jason draws his artistic influences from his Larrakia ancestry and the Larrakia language and cultural practices, creating a mix of contemporary and traditional styles, and has been part of the festival since its inaugural event in 2017.

Expressions of interests from local artists are currently being sought with each artist given the opportunity to be mentored by co-curator of the Festival, David Collins.

From now until September 2020 a mural will be painted each fortnight, breathing new life and excitement throughout the Darwin CBD, with the Territory Labor Government supporting most businesses to open safely and support Territorians getting back into a job.

Quotes from the Member for Port Darwin, Paul Kirby:

“It is very exciting to see the Darwin Street Art Festival back in 2020 and playing an important role in revitalising our CBD.

“From lunchtime on Friday 15 May there will be new life in the Darwin CBD, with businesses back in service and Territorians back in work.

“The Territory Labor Government continues to make our Darwin CBD a more vibrant and attractive place for people to enjoy.

“The Darwin Street Art Festival is a hugely popular and successful initiative funded by the Territory Labor Government that is bringing vibrancy and vitality back into Darwin’s CBD.”

Quotes from Darwin Street Art Festival Co-Curator, David Collins:

“The Darwin Street Art Festival provides opportunities for many artists to grow their skills and it’s been great to see our local talent go on to produce artworks done gain recognition nationally and even internationally.

“It’s really rad to be able to deliver this year’s Street Art Festival and involve even broader range of local artists and creatives.

“With two weeks between each artwork, I’ll be able to spend more time mentoring and supporting artists to ensure they gain new skills, as well as produce amazing artwork for our city.”

ENDS

Media Enquiries:  Tom Ryan (0436 951 084)